Paneer Tikka Masala

Introduction

Paneer Tikka Masala, a spiced, tangy, and flavorful dish that seamlessly marries Indian cottage cheese (paneer) with aromatic spices and a rich tomato-based gravy, is a culinary delight cherished worldwide. This dish, often found on restaurant menus, encapsulates the essence of Indian cuisine—celebrating flavor depth and a medley of textures. Whether you are indulging in it with naan or rice, Paneer Tikka Masala promises a comforting yet exotic experience that transforms any meal into a feast. Join me in this step-by-step guide to recreate the magic of Paneer Tikka Masala in your kitchen.

Kitchen Equipment Required

• Chef’s Knife
• Cutting Board
• Mixing Bowls
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Grill or Grill Pan
• Saucepan
• Skewers (if grilling)

Cooking Time

Total estimated time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Paneer Tikka Masala Recipe

Ingredients

• 400g (14 oz) paneer, cubed
• 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped, about 150g (5.3 oz)
• 2 tomatoes, pureed, about 250g (9 oz)
• 2 tablespoons (30g) yogurt
• 1 tablespoon (15g) ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon (5g) cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) coriander powder
• 0.5 teaspoon (2.5g) turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) garam masala
• 0.5 teaspoon (2.5g) chili powder
• 150ml (5 oz) heavy cream
• Salt to taste
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish
• Lemon wedges, for serving

For Marination

• 200g (7 oz) yogurt
• 1 tablespoon (15g) ginger-garlic paste
• 1 teaspoon (5g) red chili powder
• 1 teaspoon (5g) garam masala
• 0.5 teaspoon (2.5g) turmeric powder
• Salt to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

Step 1: Marinating the Paneer

In a large mixing bowl, combine the 200g (7 oz) yogurt, 15g (1 tbsp) ginger-garlic paste, 5g (1 tsp) red chili powder, 5g (1 tsp) garam masala, 2.5g (0.5 tsp) turmeric powder, salt, and the juice of one lemon. Mix well to form a smooth paste. Add the cubed paneer, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to let the flavors infuse.

Step 2: Grilling the Paneer

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated paneer onto skewers if using a grill. Lightly brush or spray with oil to prevent sticking. Grill the paneer until golden and slightly charred on the edges, about 5-7 minutes per side. Set aside.

Step 3: Preparing the Masala

In a large saucepan over medium heat, add 30ml (2 tbsp) vegetable oil. Once hot, sauté the finely chopped onion until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the ginger-garlic paste, cooking until fragrant. Incorporate the pureed tomatoes, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and chili powder. Mix well and let simmer for 15 minutes until the mixture thickens and oil separates from the masala.

Step 4: Combining and Simmering

Add the grilled paneer cubes to the masala. Gently stir to coat the paneer with the flavorful sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and allow the paneer to simmer gently for 10 minutes to absorb the sauce’s flavors. Adjust seasoning with salt and finish with a sprinkle of garam masala.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish the Paneer Tikka Masala with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or chapati. Accompany your dish with lemon wedges for an added citrusy kick when tasting the subtle notes of the spices.

Conclusion

Delight in the rich concoction of Paneer Tikka Masala, a testament to the vibrant tapestry of Indian cuisine. The juxtaposition of grilled paneer with savory masala creates an enticing dish that captures the heart of culinary artisanship. Perfect for special occasions or a sumptuous night in, this dish promises a whirlwind of flavor in every bite. Enjoy the experience of crafting a beloved classic, and remember to share this joy with family and friends.

Wyatt Travis Creator of AI MultiPrompter

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